Orion 'Ron' Koppang, 81

On July 5, 2024, Orion "Ron" Koppang, 81, passed away peacefully at home with his family following a long battle with COPD. He was born in Kalispell, on March 17, 1943, to Astrid Koppang (Prestybe) and Orion "Buddy" Koppang. Ron grew up in Kalispell and Columbia Falls, graduating from Columbia Falls High School in 1961. Ron pursued the love of his life, Karalee Stewart and attended University of Montana. They married on June 2, 1966, in Long Beach, California. Ron left a few days later for two tours to Vietnam aboard the destroyer, the Frank E Evans. Following his naval service, Ron and Karalee stayed in southern California where Ron worked at McDonnell Douglas Aircraft. 

In 1971 Ron and Karalee moved to Oregon City, Oregon, and took a job as a State Farm Agent. Ron was an active member in the early 70s on the Oregon City School Board and Jaycee’s. He and Karalee raised two daughters, Riona and Shanin, in the Oregon City. In 2003, after 32 years, Ron retired from State Farm and pulled a fifth wheel across the United States with his lovely bride.  

The golden years were cut short with the early passing of Karalee at age 65. Ron continued to live in Oregon City where he would have a joke, a smile, and good conversation with any and all he encountered. Ron touched many lives through the years and meant so much to so many. He was an outstanding father, husband, grandfather and community member who will be greatly missed. 

He was preceded in death by his wife, Karalee; sister, Karen Malany; and many lifelong friends. 

He leaves behind daughter, Riona Koppang Tilley; son-in-law, Andre Tilley; daughter, Shanin Koppang Prusia; and grandsons, Cole Prusia and Owen Prusia.  

A memorial service will begin at 10 a.m. on Aug. 3, West Linn Lutheran Church. In lieu of flowers, kindly make a donation to Providence Oregon Hospice.